Goliath crane at work in Leicester Goods Yard

L2267. This photograph, taken around 1897, shows the construction of an electric goliath crane over the permanent way of Leicester Goods Yard. When completed, this powerful machine would be capable of lifting 25 ton loads from vans and wagons. Visible beyond the crane and shrouded in scaffolding is the electrical and hydraulic powerhouse, one of the few Great Central buildings still to survive demolition. Henry Lovatt & Co. of Wolverhampton was the contractor responsible for building this section of the Railway (Contract No.2, Leake to Aylestone).